VivaTech 2026 highlights AI agents and deep-tech innovation

VivaTech 2026, one of Europe's largest startup and technology events, is bringing together startups, technology companies, investors and policymakers to showcase how frontier technologies are increasingly moving from experimentation to real-world deployment. 

The conference runs from June 17 to 20. Artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, green technology and deep tech are among the key themes, with many exhibitors focusing on technologies designed to improve productivity and accelerate industrial transformation.

One of the most prominent topics at conference is the rise of AI agents, which are increasingly viewed as the next step in the development of artificial intelligence.

Unlike traditional generative AI systems that mainly respond to user prompts, AI agents can perform tasks, interact with multiple software systems and support business operations with greater autonomy. Industry participants say such technologies could help companies improve efficiency across sectors including manufacturing, healthcare and retail.

Demand for skills linked to so-called AI agents has surged across Europe, according to new data from freelance marketplace Malt. According to FRANCE 24, AI agents are driving major shift in freelance hiring, Malt CEO Vincent Huguet says.

Several companies unveiled new AI-powered solutions at the exhibition. Beauty technology company Perfect Corp showcased AI tools designed to provide personalized beauty services and enhance customer engagement. The company also demonstrated technologies that allow AI assistants to communicate across different platforms and applications.

The growing focus on practical deployment was also reflected in presentations by major technology firms. Amazon Web Services (AWS) and NVIDIA highlighted AI startups developing solutions for automation, robotics and enterprise operations, underscoring the industry's shift toward real-world business applications.

Meanwhile, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos predicted at the conference that AI will lead to labor shortages, not the replacement of humans.

Beyond AI, deep-tech innovation has emerged as another major attraction at the event.

Quantum computing is drawing increasing attention as companies explore its potential to solve highly complex computational problems. IBM presented advances in quantum technologies alongside its AI portfolio, while Airbus showcased developments in quantum sensing and quantum navigation systems, which could support future applications in aviation and industrial operations.

Robotics was among the attractions drawing large crowds at the exhibition. Chinese robotics company Unitree demonstrated a humanoid robot in collaboration with French neuro-AI company HABS.

The demonstration featured technology designed to enable interaction between humans and machines through brain activity rather than spoken commands. Participants wore a headband equipped with an electroencephalogram (EEG), a device that records electrical activity in the brain, while the robot responded to commands generated through the system.

The showcase offered a glimpse into emerging approaches to human-machine interaction and reflected growing interest in bringing AI technologies into physical-world applications.

(With input from agencies)